ReCAAP ISC reports a total of 82 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships for 2019, an increase on 2018. Concern remains for crew kidnap for ransom & spike in incidents in Singapore Straits

Overall, global piracy numbers have dropped from 201 to 162 incidents in 2019, however, incidence of crew kidnap in the Gulf of Guinea region has reached unprecedented levels

Nine crew kidnapped from bulk carrier, Bonita, southwest of Cotonou, Benin on 2 November have been released and returned to safety with their families.

ReCAAP ISC Anti-Piracy Capacity Building for Senior Maritime & Law Enforcement Officers in cooperation with Vietnam Coast Guard convened in Hanoi, Vietnam

Anchored bulk carrier attacked and boarded by pirates/robbers at anchor off Cotonou, Benin. Nine crew reported kidnapped. Reamining crew sail vessel into port Cotonou.

EUNAVFOR Spanish frigate, ESPS Canarias,answered a distress call form Somali Navy vessel approx 60km north of Cadale. Seven Somali sailors were provided with medical assistance to the rescue sailors.

Actual incidents of piracy/armed robbery against ships at sea in Asia at lowest level in 13 year period for Jan - Sep period, but 54 incidents reported. Abduction of crew for ransom remains a concern.

Whilst the overall number of piracy & armed robbery against ships has dropped, the IMB's statistics confirm concerns over continued threats to safety & security of seafarers. 119 incidents reported.